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Trails, sidewalks and bikeways play a vital role in Tennessee by providing transportation options outside of automobiles. There is continuous growth statewide in terms of the interest in the role of cycling, and Tennessee strives to improve bicycling conditions that will lead to healthy, safe and active lives. Whether it be for cruising along the state's natural trails to getting around town to touring, bicycling is a popular form of recreation.

Highway Routes

For bikers interested in taking long-distance rides, Tennessee welcomes bicyclists to take advantage of the state's five highway routes: Reelfoot, River, Heartland, Highland Rim and Mountains. When cycling along the routes, bikers should take caution as the roads are used by trucks and cars. All highways along the route are marked with bicycle route signs, which include a milepost number, which is based on a west-to-east and south-to-north direction.

Bicyling Clubs

There are various clubs and organizations that are comprised of bike enthusiasts and supporters. The Appalachian Mountain Bike Club, the Northeast Tennessee Mountain Bike Association, Bicycling Routes for Knoxville and the Mid-South Trails Association are examples of clubs that represent a specific region of the state. Although every club is different, some organize group biking expeditions, coordinate biking trail cleanup efforts and advocate for trail access, according to American Trails, an online resource for cyclists.

Nature Cycling

Tennessee has mountain paths, lakeside trails, blueways, parks and greenways galore, all suitable for bicyclists who enjoy nature and the outdoors. Choosing a destination takes research, as there are so many state forests, historical sites and city parks. Steele Creek Park, located in Bristol, is the third largest municipal park in the state and has more than 2,000 acres of trails, according to the Tennessee Department of Tourist Development. Standing Stone State Park is a rustic location in Hilham that welcomes bikers to take advantage of the park's 11,000 acres on the Cumberland Plateau. The Short Springs Natural Area in Tullahoma and the Tennessee River Blueway in Chattanooga are two other popular biking destinations.

Bike Across Tennessee

Every September, Tennessee hosts the Bicycle Ride Across Tennessee event designed for both expert cyclists, as well as recreational riders. This seven-day bike ride takes participants through valleys, rolling hills and the flat lands of the state. Cyclists camp out at state parks at night, and travel between 52 and 84 miles each day. A mix of short-distance and long-distance days are incorporated into the tour to accommodate cyclists of all levels.

About the Author

Brooke Williams is a freelance writer living in Alabama. She is a former education and government reporter at a daily newspaper and has been writing since 2003. Williams received her journalism degree from Auburn University. She has written for "Health for Alabama" and "Health for Tennessee" magazines.